As a result of the Spanish-American War, the United States became involved in the
Filipino struggle for independence at the end of the 19th century.
The Americans called back Emilio Aguinaldo (1869-1964), the exiled rebel leader, and
helped him bring centuries of Spanish rule to an end.
Aguinaldo declared the islands independent on June 12, 1898.
But the U.S. acquired the Philippines after signing the Treaty of Paris in 1899, and it
wasn't until July 4, 1946, that the islands were granted full independence.
For many years, Filipinos set aside July 4 to celebrate their own independence and to
acknowledge their longstanding ties to the United States.
But in 1962, President Diosdada Macapagal changed the date to June 12, the anniversary of Aguinaldo's initial declaration of independence from Spain.
The U.S. ambassador often speaks at Independence Day ceremonies in Manila, which
include a military parade and the pealing of church bells.
After the official ceremonies are over, Filipinos devote the remainder of the day to
recreation.
There are games and athletic competitions, fireworks displays, and Independence Day
balls.
In Hawaii, which has a large Filipino population, there are often Filipino fiestas
celebrating Philippine heritage.
Full story:
https://encyclopedia2.thefreedictionary.com/Philippines+Independence+Day
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